Detective Constable Jill Spiers, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “Al-Khouladi is a cold, calculating predator, a man who walked the streets waiting for a young woman walking alone who he could prey upon.

“He subjected this poor woman to a terrible attack and is thoroughly deserving of the lengthy sentence he received.

Mahmoud Al-Khouladi dragged his victim into the grounds of Emmanuel Church

“Greater Manchester Police take every report of rape seriously and this sentence shows that we will relentlessly pursue the people who perpetrate these crimes until they get the sentence they deserve.”

The sickening attack came just two days after another, unrelated, sex attack on the same road.

GMP stepped up patrols in the area in the wake of the incidents.

Justin Hayhoe, senior crown advocate for CPS North West added: “Mahmoud Al-Khouladi attacked a lone female as she walked home following a night out.

“This was clearly a pre-planned and targeted stranger rape.

“The victim was terrified and traumatised during this ordeal, but has shown great courage in coming forward and standing up to her attacker.

“I would also like to thank the good samaritan who came to the victim’s assistance and gave evidence during the trial.

“It is thanks to them that Mahmoud Al-Khouladi has now been imprisoned for a considerable amount of time where he can no longer pose a risk to women.”

GMP encourages anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted to contact them on 101, or to contact St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 276 6515 for specialist care and support.